Like a lovers’ quarrel, Apple TV+’s Valentine’s Day release, The Gorge, is likely to split audiences into two mutually uncomprehending camps. For some, a hugely entertaining first hour will prove worth the price of admission, never mind the film’s outright disaster of a second half. Others, not without justice, will skip the climax and denouement altogether, so obviously and suddenly does the production betray its early triumphs. Who’s right? Everyone. Come for the opening act’s star power and style. Stay (or don’t) for one of the worst stretches of moviemaking viewers are liable to see this year. 

The picture stars Miles Teller as Levi Kane, a world-class sniper at loose ends following his retirement from the U.S. Marines. Directionless and dour, Levi snaps to attention when a “high-level spook” (Sigourney Weaver) offers a solo mission guarding an observation post in terra incognita. Beside Levi’s tower lies a miles-long crevasse, shrouded in fog and studded with mines. On the other side sits a Russian counterpart. Is fraternization permitted? Sorry, children, that’s a hard nyet.